Practicing “I” language
Instructions: Rewrite each of the evaluative “you” language
statements below using descriptive “I” language.
Be sure to:
- Describe the other person’s
behavior using very specific and objective language.
- Share your thoughts and feelings
that occur when you experience the behavior.
- Be sure to take responsibility
for your thoughts and feelings.
(remember, no one makes you feel something, you choose to feel that
emotion)
- Share the consequences the
other person’s behavior has for you
Example: You
language: “You don’t care about my
feelings”
I
language: “I felt hurt when I saw you
in the restaurant with your old girlfriend when you told me you had to work.”
- “You never want to hear my side of the
story.”
“I” language statement:
- “You don’t keep your word.”
“I “ language statement:
- “You’re no fun.”
“I” language statement:
- “You can’t take a joke.”
“I” language statement:
- “Do you ever tell the truth?”
“I” language statement:
- “You’re going to ruin my life.”
“I” language statement:
- “You’re driving me crazy.”
“I” language statement:
- “You have a bad attitude.”
“I” language statement:
- “You aren’t there for me.”
“I” language statement